Official Opening of the Sungura Net Rabbit Breeding Center in Muyange, Cibitoke Province

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On Saturday, February 1, 2025, Burundi marked a significant milestone in the agricultural sector with the official inauguration of the “Sungura Net” rabbit breeding center in Muyange, Mugina Commune, Cibitoke Province. This event was graced the President of the Republic of Burundi Evariste Ndayishimiye, along with the leaders of the Youth Economic Empowerment and Employment Program and international partners. These stakeholders played a crucial role in establishing modern rabbit housing facilities and ensuring the provision of adequate feed for the center’s operations.

Prof. Desiré Manirakiza, National Coordinator of the Youth Economic Empowerment and Employment Program, highlighted the significance of the initiative. “This rabbit multiplication center is composed of young people selected bu the Youth Economic Empowerment and Employment Program, as they already have knowledge in rabbit farming. This center has received 308 rabbits imported from France, including 266 breeding females and the rest being males. The main objective is to produce 8,700 rabbits every two months, which means an annual production of about 50,000 rabbits. This project also aims to distribute five rabbits per household or youth, allowing us to support 10,000 families or young people per year.We are very excited about the progress of this initiative, as no one expected us to reach this stage so soon. We started the construction just seven months ago, and today, we are honored to have His Excellency, the President, officially inaugurate this center.”

Prof. Desiré Manirakiza, National Coordinator of the Youth Economic Empowerment and Employment Program, talking to the press

The success of this initiative is credited to the collaboration with various experts in the field. Mr. Aziz Agossou from Benin, representing rabbit farming organizations across Africa, played a key role in designing the architectural plan for the rabbit housing structures. The construction of cages was overseen by Eric, a French expert in rabbit housing, while another French specialist, Daniel, contributed his expertise in rabbit genetics. Additionally, Hervé, the head of Terrena, provided valuable input on rabbit nutrition and feeding.

The center boasts an impressive collection of rabbits known for their superior breed quality, capable of reaching five kilograms in just four months. As the first modern rabbit breeding facility of its kind in Africa, Sungura Net sets a new benchmark in high-standard rabbit farming in Burundi. The initiative aims to expand further, with plans to establish additional centers in different regions to boost rabbit production and economic opportunities for local communities.

The newly inaugurated facility consists of four modern buildings designed to accommodate and support the growth of newly born rabbits. These well-structured and advanced housing units ensure optimal conditions for breeding and development, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainable and innovative agricultural practices.

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